Interfaith Dialogue, Peace and Human Rights: Marco Baragli’s Message from Lugano

LUGANO, 4 October 2026 – Peace and the protection of human rights require dialogue between people of different cultures and faiths, as well as practical cooperation in defence of human dignity. This was the central message of an address delivered in Lugano by Rev. Canon Marco Baragli, Adviser for Cooperation at the World Organization of States.

During the meeting, Ambassador Alfredo Maiolese presented Rev. Canon Baragli with a recognition in appreciation of his commitment to peace, interfaith dialogue and the defence of human rights.

Drawing on his experience in religion, education and ecumenical engagement, Rev. Canon Baragli observed that misunderstandings, lack of knowledge and a breakdown in communication can deepen tensions within society. Interfaith dialogue can help address these divisions by bringing communities together around shared values and encouraging mutual respect.

He also recalled a mission to Malaysia last July, where representatives of Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu and Christian communities joined efforts to address the trafficking and exploitation of young women along routes linking Malaysia and Thailand. The initiative followed a request for support from a local Buddhist monk, and the issue was subsequently brought to the attention of the United Nations. The experience showed how dialogue can lead to practical cooperation when communities build trust and work toward clear humanitarian goals.

The defence of human rights, Baragli stressed, must apply to every person, regardless of religion or background. Human dignity is universal, and efforts to protect it call for solidarity and cooperation across religious and cultural boundaries.

Switzerland’s tradition of neutrality, mediation and peacebuilding gives it an important role in international dialogue. Geneva hosts the United Nations Office and many international organizations, while Lugano, at the meeting point of different cultural and linguistic communities, offers a meaningful setting for exchange and cooperation.

The meeting reaffirmed a simple principle: dialogue becomes a force for peace when it leads to shared responsibility and concrete action in defence of human dignity.